Where Do You Want To Go?

You’re likely interested in a specific geographic location, as well as in a few industries. Your job search will become more focused as you define your interests and research which companies to target. Based upon the criteria that are important to you, there are different ways to find potential employers to pursue.

Geography

If you intent on starting your career in a specific geographic market, many of the resources previously mentioned (in "Be Involved") will help you find potential employers.

  • The Business Career Center's Library has various books to refer to.
  • The Marriott School also maintains Management Society Chapters in cities around the country. Reaching out to the leadership in the chapter where you are interested in relocating is a good way to find out about potential employment opportunities (refer to "Networking" tab).
  • LDS Employment is a regional resource available as well. Their offices will help connect you and your interests with church members of opportunities in specific geographic areas ("Networking" tab).

Industry

If you are interested in a particular industry, look into the Marriott School Clubs based on your industry of interest. Also speak with counselors within the Business Career Center.

How Will You Get There?


A successful job search requires a strategy. After you have established some career goals and built a list of target employers, develop your strategy. Job search strategies vary widely based upon which industries you are pursuing.

Much of this is a repeat of the "Explore and Research" portion, though at this point you should have decided where you are headed. Research your target companies, one by one. Read through their websites and gain an understanding of their businesses, products, and cultures. Use the Library resources such as Vault and Mint Global. Search through periodical indexes available at the HBLL to find any recent milestones achieved by the employers (likely found on their website as well). Look through materials the Career Center has one firms. Be open to the information you learn. You may discover that you are no longer interested in working for a specific firm, or you may learn that there are additional companies you'd like to target.

Once you have a firm understanding of your target employer, reach out to others who have worked there. The Marriott School Alumni Database will allow you to search through specific employers and find alumni who may be able to help (refer to "Networking" tab for more information on how to contact alumni). BYU alumni at your target employers will be able to provide you with insights as to the next steps for pursuing that particular organization. One of these steps could include flying out at your own expense to their location for an informational interview.
Informational interviews are a great way to learn more about the company. These can be conducted in person or via phone. You should always do research previous to the interview and come with many questions. Alison Doyle wrote a great article that helps explain the value of Informational Interviews: Informational Interview.

Always remember that your academic success also affects an employer's interest in you. Do your best in school. In addiction, seek a mentor, whether an alumni or member of the Management Societies you have contacted. The Career Center can be a great resource in help you to find the right contacts as you pursue your target companies. Set up an appointment with a counselor to discuss your options and see what school connections/resources are available to you.

HBLL Business Resource